Controversy Surrounds NHS Contract with Palantir

The UK government's £330 million contract with Palantir Technologies, a US surveillance technology firm, has come under scrutiny due to concerns about its reputation and implications for the National Health Service (NHS). Awarded in November 2023, the contract aims to develop an AI-enabled federated data platform (FDP) to integrate health information across the NHS. However, internal briefings reveal that health officials fear public perception of Palantir could hinder the project's rollout, raising questions about its value for money.

The Guardian

Health officials have expressed apprehension that the controversial reputation of Palantir—known for its work with the Israeli military and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)—could limit the deployment of the FDP. Reports indicate that by mid-2025, less than half of health authorities in England had adopted the technology, with the British Medical Association (BMA) stating that its members might refuse to utilize the system due to ethical concerns. The BMA has long opposed Palantir's involvement in NHS operations, emphasizing the need for transparency and public trust.

Green Party MPs demand inquiry into Palantir NHS deal

In light of these concerns, Green Party MPs have called for an immediate inquiry into the NHS contract with Palantir, questioning the influence of former UK Ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson, on the deal. They argue that the UK's reliance on Palantir could compromise its digital sovereignty and make it difficult to challenge US policies. The MPs have urged the government to reconsider its relationship with the tech firm, emphasizing that Palantir has "absolutely no place in the NHS."

Green Party MPs demand inquiry into Palantir NHS dealThe Guardian

Donald Campbell, director of advocacy at Foxglove, criticized the government for attempting to mitigate public concerns about Palantir rather than addressing them. He stated, “The prime minister and the health secretary should listen to the public they serve when they tell them Palantir has no place in the NHS.” Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Palantir defended the contract, claiming that their software has contributed to significant improvements in NHS operations, including a reduction in hospital discharge delays.

The GuardianGreen Party MPs demand inquiry into Palantir NHS deal

Former Conservative minister David Davis highlighted a "huge value-for-money issue" regarding the Palantir contract, suggesting that the NHS management displayed naivety in partnering with a company linked to the American security state. He warned that many hospital trusts and general practitioners (GPs) would likely resist collaboration with Palantir due to its controversial background.

The Guardian

• “ Donald Campbell, director of advocacy at Foxglove, said: “The prime minister and the health secretary should listen to the public they serve when they tell them Palantir has no place in the NHS.” — Donald Campbell, Director of Advocacy at Foxglove

The Guardian

• “ John Puntis, co-chair of the Keep Our NHS Public campaign, said: “This looks like another example of a hugely wasteful IT contract, and lack of public trust will make it unworkable.” — John Puntis, Co-chair of Keep Our NHS Public

The Guardian

• “The government is going to have a problem with many hospital trusts and they are going to have really difficult problems with the GPs,” — David Davis, Former Conservative Minister

The Guardian

While the number of NHS organizations using Palantir's technology has reportedly increased from 118 to 151 since June 2025, this figure remains below the target of 240 by the end of the year. The extent to which public perception is impacting the rollout remains unclear, as officials have described many concerns as misconceptions.

The Guardian

The future of the NHS-Palantir contract is uncertain, with ongoing debates about its implications for patient privacy and the overall effectiveness of the FDP.

The Guardian